Lab Manager (f/m/d) in the Environmental Geochemistr...

The Group of Applied Geochemistry at the University of Freiburg invites applications for a Lab Manager (f/m/d) in the Environmental Geochemistry Laboratory.

The newly established laboratory seeks a motivated person with a technical or scientific background to join the team and share enthusiasm for experimental environmental geochemistry and interdisciplinary research. The group investigates fundamental and applied questions in environmental geochemistry, focusing on contaminant behavior, groundwater protection, and biogeochemical element cycling. It studies the interactions of inorganic contaminants and nutrients with minerals and their role in environmental processes. Combining biogeochemical, mineralogical, and hydrogeochemical approaches with state-of-the-art analytical methods, the group aims to advance understanding of geochemical processes and develop innovative strategies for the sustainable protection of natural resources.

Your tasks

As a laboratory manager, you will play a key role in establishing, developing, and ensuring the smooth operation of the Applied Geochemistry Laboratory. A central analytical instrument in the laboratory is a new LC-ICP-MS, which enables the quantification of elemental species at trace concentrations. The laboratory infrastructure also includes an IC, AAS, UV/VIS, XRD, TOC, SEM, and a Mössbauer spectrometer.

• Oversee laboratory maintenance, procurement, and safety management
• Train and support staff and students in using laboratory infrastructure and conducting experiments
• Develop technical solutions and optimize analytical methods, particularly for ICP-MS applications, together with doctoral researchers and postdocs
• Support research projects through laboratory work, field activities, sampling, and measurements
• Assist with field and laboratory practical courses

Your profile

You enjoy working in an international environment and are excited to take on a wide range of tasks. With a hands-on attitude, you seek out solutions and have a keen sense for efficiently organizing laboratory processes. You are motivated to help shape a new laboratory and tackle both routine and more complex challenges.

• At least a bachelor's or university degree (FH) in environmental sciences, geosciences, chemistry or a related field, or a comparable professional qualification
• Solid theoretical and practical expertise in water or environmental analysis
• Openness to and enthusiasm for innovative technologies, with a willingness to learn new topics
• A good understanding of technical and environmental chemistry
• A careful, reliable, and precise working style
• Good knowledge of German and English (at least B2 level in both languages)
• Strong teamwork skills and intercultural competence

Our offer

• An exciting and diverse role within an inspiring team that fosters creativity and values open, respectful communication
• The chance to actively shape the development of the laboratory
• Flexible, family-friendly working hours
• The opportunity to work independently and on your own responsibility while being part of a team
• A supportive and collaborative work environment that fosters both personal and professional growth
• Bright and modern office and laboratory spaces in a centrally located, historic building within walking distance of the train station
• Job ticket, further training and company pension scheme (VBL)

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